Shirley Ballas was given the third degree on her ballroom feedback to GMB news reporter Charlotte Hawkins, who competed on the show last year, and was quizzed on her beef with former professional Brendan Cole.

Talking about the comments she made about Charlotte, she began: "It was constructive criticism in order for her to get better the following week.

"Unfortunately, a certain member took it the wrong way."

ITV

GRILLED: Strictly's Shirley Ballas was given the third degree on Good Morning Britain today

Ben, 43, chipped in: "Do you think the relationship that you had with Brendan and the friction that there was there caused a problem? Because Brendan took exception to what you were saying."

Shirley replied: "First of all, there was no friction between Brendan and I. I've known Brendan a very, very long time and how Brendan likes to conduct himself is his business.

"For me, there was no friction. I was there to do a job. I did it. I thought she [Charlotte] was extremely talented. I tried to express that perhaps the choreography was a little difficult at the beginning, but unfortunately he took it the wrong way."

One person slammed: "Shirley Ballas was given a bit of a hard time this morning. Just because she critiqued their 'good friend' on Strictly. RUDE!"

ITV

AWKWARD: Strictly's Shirley praised Charlotte's dancing abilities

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WAR PATH: GMB's Susanna Reid and Ben Shephard went in on Shirley

“First of all, there was no friction between Brendan and I”

Shirley Ballas

"Christ, they jumped on Shirley Ballas a bit, didn't they? What was that all about? If only they went for politicians like that…" raved another.

A third continued: "That was a tad awkward at the start. Talk about making someone feel uncomfortable! That incident on strictly was really old news, no need to drag it up. Tut tut presenters."

"What a horrible interview with Shirley Ball as. Poor woman. Surprised GMB didn't have her strapped to the couch with a spotlight in her face. She was very diplomatic despite the goading," said a fourth.

Another praised Shirley for the chat: "Great interview on GMB, you looked beautiful in what you wore. Can't wait to see you back on Strictly."

BBC

FEUD: Brendan Cole rowed with Shirley over her comments on their performance